Some of the first concepts and functions of computers that we are so familiarized with today were revolutionary not that long ago. In 1982, the Xerox Star boasted a desktop-like interface in which the user could organize his or her files, folders, and documents. It was accompanied by a keyboard with the regular typing keys, but also keys that could control stylistic choices, such as the appearance of text, margins, and many other elements of a file. Now, it probably seems silly to include such specific commands, but considering the capabilities of this device, it was a nice addition. There was also a built-in “email” system, where mail from one server could be delivered to the in-basket of another server. Many of these commands we still use today everytime we touch a computer, except it has become so normalized that these features fade into the background of the experience. However, it is imperative to acknowledge their importance and significance in how our devices have been shaped.
Similarly, the Macintosh made in 1984 was relatively primitive, although was considered to have an impressive GUI in that time. While so much of the graphics has conspicuously changed, many of the functions remain untouched. The Apple menu bar at the top of the screen, for example, has remained consistent throughout every version of the Macintosh produced up to this date. While functionality has expanded, the placement and overall purpose has sustained over the years, as it was clearly always an effective feature. On the contrary, Apple finder windows used to be unable to categorize files through hierarchy, and so directories were left on the same level. As more files accumulate, it would get much tougher to organize and find what you’re searching for, so the new ability to put items in a folder and rank them however you feel is an extremely useful tool we take for granted, and so learning how these products originate and evolve over time is useful to understanding why they are built the way they are today.
